I had asked the children to show me their performances from Super Kids Africa yesterday, and they did so - the three performances that earned them the best award in Drama and the best award in Creativity. Their passion, professionalism and perfection absolutely blew me away. In fact, I had to explain to them after they were done that my tears were from joy, not sadness - and reminded them that tears of joy feel good, while tears of sadness sting.
Tonight, I honor the children and all those who gave it their all to ensure our kids were taught, encouraged and prepared for their competition. Everyone gave it their all. Grace, Penina and Bernard worked over time - some nights not going to bed until midnight. Their dedication is stunning, though I am not surprised in the least.
Singing was heard around the compound all month.
Friends of Watoto World Center in Nairobi made sure the children had a perfect celebration cake:
Marie Louise at Whistling Thorns made sure she and her staff recognized WWC, the children and our special celebration:
Ann traveled to WWC for two solid weeks over the month of August - sometimes having to ask for matatu fare to get back home. In lieu of expensive leg ornaments, Ann dug through rubbish to find cans to tie around each child's leg during the required religious performance, molding the cans into replicas of traditional wear. She taught the smallest children how to make the ear ornaments, so that they, too, would feel included in the process.
Tony orchestrated the timeline, keeping in close contact with me throughout the process, as I watched the budget from home, not fully aware of the detail going into the children's costumes. Trusting Tony and his decisions in this process, I am glad I kept my questions to myself.
I sign off tonight with a full heart and boundless pride and love for these amazing children. There is no denying that access to opportunity is greatly influenced by poverty and remoteness; here in Africa alone, millions of children
are denied the basic necessities for a happy childhood and an education to develop their capacities. Today, I was blindsided by the miracle of WWC and what our children have accomplished in two short years. All but three are total orphans. All came to us devoid of the experience of touch, much less a gentle hug or words of encouragement in any part of their young lives. All our children knew was hunger, abuse and the innate will to survive, some at the ripe age of three. Many were frightened. Some are still suffering past traumas, particularly in their dreams as they lay together in safety each night. Today, our children are learning their value as citizens of the earth. They are appreciated, loved, respectful and thoughtful. Without exception, they are hungry to learn and like all children, have dreams for their futures. It is our job to help them realize these dreams, and to continue the work we are doing.
Everything came full circle for me today. I feel mountains of gratitude for the struggles I endured over my years on this continent, not knowing at the time that they were paving the way for the next phase of my own life, and WatotoWorld, Inc. These years proved to be a practice session whereby I was able to develop the tools to understand and work within a culture so completely remote and foreign from my own experiences and reality. Today, I saw that we are doing it right.
Today was perfect.
~Feeling blessed and happy on every level~
A very goodnight to all,
Simmie and Thomas
It is not happy people who are thankful. It is thankful people who are happy.
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